A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Clearwater vs. Raleigh for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Clearwater or Raleigh?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Clearwater and Raleigh. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Clearwater

Clearwater is a outdoorsy, adventure-filled, and relaxing coastal city. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Raleigh

Raleigh is a suburban-style, friendly, and southern city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and museums.

Clearwater and Raleigh: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Clearwater or Raleigh?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Clearwater than Raleigh. While Raleigh is larger than Clearwater, Clearwater has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Clearwater is better known for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Raleigh is more popular for its big city activities. Clearwater is more touristy than Raleigh and is known for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. Also, Clearwater is famous for Clearwater Beach. Raleigh is well known for its many museums and being the home to North Carolina State University.

How is Clearwater different from Raleigh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Raleigh and Clearwater. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Clearwater or Raleigh?

Clearwater is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Clearwater offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Perhaps most well known is the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, but there are also a surprising number of museums nearby such as the Dalí Museum, the impressive Chihuly Glass Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts.

Raleigh is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. As the state capital, there are a number of free museums in the area. There are also some kid-friendly options and other activities that are affiliated with the colleges and universities. Popular options include the NC Museum of Natural Sciences (free), the NC Museum of History (free), the NC Museum of Art (free), and Marbles Kids Museum.

Is the Food Better in Clearwater or Raleigh? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Clearwater is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Clearwater is an experience not to be missed. Head to the waterfront for some of the best seafood. Unfortunately this is also where you'll find the highest prices. Shrimp, crab, and a fresh catch of the day are common on many menus.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Raleigh. In addition to the standard chain restaurants, you'll find a number of local eateries with great southern dishes. Try some southern classics like barbecue, pimento cheese, and fried chicken and waffles. There are also good international options including Nepalese, Laotian, and Ethiopian flavors.

Is Clearwater or Raleigh Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are notable in both Clearwater and Raleigh.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Clearwater. You'll find laid back beach clubs, glitzy wine bars, and relaxed bars where you can spend a nice night out.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Raleigh. Head to downtown Raleigh or the areas around NC State University for some of the best nightlife. Trivia nights and happy hours are popular and you'll find breweries popping up in many places.

Is Clearwater or Raleigh Better for Resorts?

Clearwater is well known for its resorts. However, Raleigh is not a resort destination.

Clearwater is known as a popular and fun resort destination. You'll find a number of nice resorts along the coastline. Some of the most popular are the Sandpearl Resort, the Opal Sands Resort, and the Clearwater Beach Marriott.

Raleigh is not a resort destination.

Is Clearwater or Raleigh Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Raleigh is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Clearwater has a few good snorkeling spots. There's both snorkeling and diving nearby. Some of the best dive spots are within and hour of the shore and you'll find diving shops that offer trips.

Raleigh is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Raleigh Better for Beaches?

Clearwater is very popular for the beach. However, Raleigh is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Clearwater. Clearwater Beach is on many lists as one of the best beaches in America. It's the most popular beach in the area and it spreads out over 2.5 miles. Sand Key Beach is another popular destination as is the pristine Caladesi Island State Park.

Raleigh is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Raleigh?

Clearwater is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Clearwater to go shopping. You'll find all of the standard shopping options in the area such as malls, shopping centers, and outlets. Westfield Countryside Mall is a popular destination as is the Cleveland Street District.

Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Clearwater or Raleigh Better for Families?

Clearwater is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Clearwater is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Check out the playground and activities around Pier 60. Less crowded and family-friendly Sand Key Park is another favorite spot and the playgrounds at New Coachman Park and Crest Lake Park are also fun. Clearwater Marine Aquarium is another popular attraction for visitors with kids.

Raleigh offers lots of family activities. For such a small city, Raleigh has a number of unique kid-friendly activities like the popular Pullen Park and Marbles Kids' Museum. Pullen Park has small rides and a playground that are perfect for young kids. There's also the NC Museum of Natural History which is free and fun to explore with kids.

Is Clearwater or Raleigh Better for Couples?

Clearwater is well known for couples. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for romance.

Couples visit Clearwater frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are beautiful parks and beaches as well as romantic activities like sunset cruises and dolphin spotting tours. Couples will also enjoy dining on local seafood and shopping at the local venues.

Raleigh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. While it's often overlooked by couples who want a weekend away, there are a number of museums and some nice restaurants to explore.

Is Clearwater or Raleigh Better for Students?

Raleigh is notable for students. However, Clearwater is not popular with students.

Many students visit Raleigh. The city has a diverse student population with many nearby universities and colleges.

Clearwater is not popular with students.

Is Clearwater or Raleigh Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Clearwater is a coastal city with a few options for its public transit. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Clearwater. The Clearwater Jolley Trolley connects some of the area's highlights. There are also public buses that run several routes through town.

Public transit is quite limited in Raleigh. The city's public transportation options are limited to a few bus lines that are mostly used by students.

Is Clearwater or Raleigh a more walkable city?

Clearwater is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for its walkability.

Clearwater is a somewhat walkable coastal city. The waterfront and downtown areas are surprisingly walkable.

Raleigh is generally not a very walkable coastal city. The city is somewhat walkable in the downtown area, but everywhere else you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Clearwater Worth Visiting? and Is Raleigh Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Raleigh or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Raleigh?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Clearwater and Raleigh. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Clearwater than in Raleigh. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Clearwater, and 2-3 days is enough time in Raleigh.

Families should spend more time in Clearwater than Raleigh. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Clearwater, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Clearwater than Raleigh. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Clearwater that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Clearwater than Raleigh if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Clearwater.

One day in Clearwater or Raleigh?

In Clearwater, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This coastal city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With museums and nightlife around the student-friendly city of Raleigh, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Clearwater or Raleigh?

In Clearwater, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Raleigh, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Clearwater or Raleigh?

Clearwater is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Clearwater has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Raleigh, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Clearwater or Raleigh?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Clearwater. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Clearwater. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Raleigh is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Clearwater and Raleigh, we can see that Clearwater is more expensive. And not only is Raleigh much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Raleigh would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Raleigh and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Clearwater would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Clearwater than you might in Raleigh.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Clearwater Expensive? and Is Raleigh Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Raleigh?

Raleigh has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Clearwater. When comparing the sizes of Clearwater and Raleigh, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Clearwater or Raleigh?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Clearwater or Raleigh in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Raleigh. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Clearwater this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Raleigh for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Clearwater is generally around the same temperature as Raleigh. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 82°F (28°C), and Raleigh fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Raleigh this time of the year. In Clearwater, it's very sunny this time of the year. Clearwater usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Raleigh during summer. Clearwater gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Raleigh receives 259 hours of full sun in the summer.

Raleigh receives a lot of rain in the summer. Clearwater gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Clearwater usually receives more rain than Raleigh. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Raleigh receives 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Clearwater or Raleigh in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Raleigh. Many travelers come to Clearwater for the shopping scene. Additionally, many visitors come to Raleigh in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions.

Clearwater is a little warmer than Raleigh in the autumn. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 75°F (24°C) in October, and Raleigh fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Raleigh. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Clearwater this time of the year. In the autumn, Clearwater often gets more sunshine than Raleigh. Clearwater gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Raleigh receives 211 hours of full sun.

Clearwater usually gets less rain in October than Raleigh. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Raleigh receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Clearwater.

Should I visit Clearwater or Raleigh in the Winter?

Both Raleigh and Clearwater are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Clearwater in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Raleigh for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Raleigh can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Clearwater is much warmer than Raleigh. Typically, the winter temperatures in Clearwater in January average around 60°F (15°C), and Raleigh averages at about 40°F (5°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Raleigh during winter. Clearwater gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Raleigh receives 162 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Raleigh. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Raleigh receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Clearwater or Raleigh in the Spring?

Both Raleigh and Clearwater during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Clearwater for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Raleigh because of the activities around the city.

In April, Clearwater is generally a little warmer than Raleigh. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 71°F (22°C), and Raleigh fluctuates around 60°F (16°C).

In Raleigh, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Clearwater. In the spring, Clearwater often gets more sunshine than Raleigh. Clearwater gets 299 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Raleigh receives 251 hours of full sun.

Clearwater usually gets less rain in April than Raleigh. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Raleigh receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Clearwater is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Raleigh and Clearwater